Gold Holds Near $4,340 as Weak U.S. Data Collides With Rate-Cut Doubts

Core Insights - Gold spot prices are projected to gain approximately $50/oz week-over-week, closing around $4,340/oz after a strong start to the week [2][3] - The market is anticipating at least two more rate cuts next year, influenced by macroeconomic data [2] Economic Data Impact - Key employment data for October and November revealed a 4.6% unemployment rate, a loss of 105,000 jobs in October, and only 64,000 new jobs added in November, indicating a weak labor market [4][6] - Retail sales growth for October was reported at 0% month-over-month, with downward revisions to previous figures [6] Inflation and Market Sentiment - November's Core CPI showed a year-over-year increase of 2.6%, better than the expected 3%, but market confidence in the data is low due to the October government shutdown [7] - The perceived reliability of inflation metrics is questioned, limiting their influence on rate-cut expectations [8] Market Dynamics - Despite weak U.S. economic data, gold prices have remained stable, suggesting a near-term ceiling for gold [8] - Ongoing demand from ETFs and central banks, along with geopolitical risks, continues to support gold prices at current levels [8]